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Transformer Information

U urrengr2003OGR Forum Member

Currently use a MRC AH501 130w transformer to power layout.  Unloaded it provides 16vac for propulsion power.  When it has to power two large trains simultanously (one with four motors in a lash-up pulling a 14 car psgr train & one master/slave with four motors pulling a 40 car frt train) the continuous current thru the TIU is 6+ amps and the voltage falls to 10VAC.  Obviously the transformer is not suitable for this service.  I would like recommendations & comments for either a MTH 4000 or Lionel 180w brick.

 

Would the 180w MTH 4000 provide this current to one channel, or is this rating shared with other loads on the transformer?  It is my intention to use either of these devices exclusively for propulsion power (one channel only).  Would this one channel receive the max current the device is designed to provide?

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Pine Creek RailroadPine Creek RailroadOGR Forum Member

urreng,

   The Z4k is a good Transformer, I also have a couple ZW's & a couple KW's. The trick is to go to the train shows in your area, many times the vendors rebuild the older ZW & KW transformers and sell them at very reasonable costs.  The Z4K is going to cost ya, same with the new ZW-L, shop around and get the best deal you can if you are going with the new stuff.

PCRR/Dave

 

Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad
rtr12rtr12OGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

If you only need to power one command control channel on your TIU then, as Dewey Trogdon stated, the Lionel Powerhouse 180 would be a very good item for that purpose. Should be able to get a new one for $80-$90 or so street price. Problem is they are kind of scarce right now. If you need future expansion capability and/or accessory power then further consideration of the Z-4000 might be in order. 

Pine Creek RailroadPine Creek RailroadOGR Forum Member

urrengr,

   The main reason I like transformers over bricks is that you can vary the voltage with the transformer, not with a brick.  I used a channel of one of my old ZW's to power all my switches, upping the voltage as I added more and more switches, can't do that with a brick.  I know lots of guys like the bricks on this forum, I am not one of them, when I can pick up a good transformer for almost the same money.

PCRR/Dave

Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad
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